The GMKtec NucBox G5 is a compact mini PC built on the Intel N97 processor, with 12GB of LPDDR5 memory and a 256GB or 512GB M.2 SATA SSD. For buyers who want a similar small form factor with a wider range of processors and memory, the Thinvent Treo Mini PC line is a strong alternative. Its Intel Core i3-1215U and i5-1240P models, for example, offer up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM and up to 2 TB of SSD storage.
GMKtec NucBox G5 N97 vs Thinvent Treo Mini PC
| Feature | GMKtec NucBox G5 N97 | Thinvent Treo Mini PC, Intel Core i3-1215U | Thinvent Treo Mini PC, Intel Core i5-1240P |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel N97 | Intel Core i3-1215U | Intel Core i5-1240P |
| Cores/Threads | 4 cores / 4 threads | 6 cores | 12 cores |
| RAM | 12 GB LPDDR5 (onboard) | Up to 64 GB DDR4 | Up to 64 GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 256 GB or 512 GB M.2 SATA SSD (max 2 TB) | 128 GB to 2 TB SSD | 128 GB to 2 TB SSD |
| Form Factor | Palm-sized cube, 2.83-inch chassis | Mini PC | Mini PC |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), dual band, or No WiFi option | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), dual band, or No WiFi option |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | DOS | DOS |
Key differences
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Higher memory ceiling: Thinvent Treo models support up to 64 GB of RAM, while the NucBox G5 ships with 12 GB of onboard LPDDR5.
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More processing cores: The Treo i5-1240P has 12 cores, compared with the N97's 4 cores.
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Expandable storage range: Thinvent Treo models offer SSD options from 128 GB up to 2 TB.
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Trade-off: The NucBox G5 comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, while Thinvent Treo models ship with DOS.
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Trade-off: The NucBox G5 uses a 12W TDP N97 processor, a low-power design aimed at everyday tasks.
Which one should you choose?
Choose the GMKtec NucBox G5 N97 if you want a ready-to-use Windows 11 Pro mini PC for light office work, streaming and browsing in a very small footprint. Choose a Thinvent Treo Mini PC if you need more cores, more memory and a wider storage range for heavier multitasking, development or business workloads.
